Migratory birds use daylength, or photoperiod, to align their migration schedules to the annual cycle, and geomagnetic information for compass orientation and positioning. How the migration phenotype in birds is controlled by geophysical information, i.e. daylength and geomagnetic information, is still poorly understood. We aim to test the hypothesis that long-distance migrants can adjust their schedule of migratory fueling to a novel geomagnetic environment by bringing juvenile songbirds into captivity, and we are looking for a dedicated master’s student to conduct the experiment. We will capture long-distance migratory songbirds in southern Sweden and will use purpose built behavioural labs (OriLAB) to simulate geomagnetic field experienced during their typical migration. Fieldwork starts: 1 August 2025. You will work in a team of scientists (including a PhD student) but will pursue your own project as a Master’s thesis.
If understanding how the endogenous migration program of songbirds’ functions and is controlled by geophysical information excites you and you like to work with animals, then this may be your master’s project. Please, contact Professor Susanne Åkesson for more information.
Professor Susanne Åkesson, Department of Biology